FMCSA Releases Large Truck and Bus Crash Data

On April 15, the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration (FMCSA) released its annual report, Large Truck and Bus Crash Facts. The release provides large truck and bus crash data for 2014. Below are some of the specific data from the report:

• 14% of all injury crashes, and 23% of all “property damage only” crashes involved large trucks in 2014

• Miles driven by large trucks and buses increased in 2014, by 1.5% and 5.5%, respectively

• 21% of all fatal crashes involved a single vehicle

• 84% of fatal crashes involving trucks and buses happened on weekdays, with 37% occurring between 6 p.m. and 6 a.m.

• 61% of fatal large truck crashes took place on rural roads and 26% occurred on rural or urban interstate highways

• 84% of fatal crashes and 88% of nonfatal crashes involving large trucks occurred on weekdays (Monday through Friday)

These are a lot of statistics to digest, but one thing is clear: We have a long road ahead when it comes to improving highway safety nationwide. There are many government agencies promoting large truck safety, but the ultimate responsibility lies with truck and bus drivers and operators to ensure that safety rules are followed, drivers are trained and vehicles are maintained.

For the complete FMCSA report, click here.